Access to Work: A Grant That Can Truly Make a Difference

Access to Work is a government-funded programme designed to support people with disabilities or physical and mental health conditions so they can start, remain, or progress in employment. It can also provide support for those moving into self-employment or setting up a business (though it does not cover general start-up costs).

Importantly, you do not need to be formally registered as disabled to qualify, and the scheme is not means-tested your earnings will not affect your eligibility.

What Can Access to Work Fund?

The grant can be tailored to meet a wide range of needs. Examples include:

• Specialist equipment or adaptations to existing workplace tools.

• Support workers such as job coaches, note-takers, or personal assistants.

• Communication support, for example, access to a British Sign Language interpreter.

• Travel support, including taxi fares if public transport isn’t an option, or funding for adaptations to a work vehicle.

• Mental health support, such as confidential sessions with a mental health professional to build a plan for staying in work.

In some cases, Access to Work also helps employers design supportive workplace programmes for employees managing long-term conditions.

Who Is Eligible?

To apply, you must:

• Be aged 16 or over.

• Live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales.

• Be in a job, about to start one, attending a job interview, or planning to become self-employed.

• Have a disability or health condition that creates a barrier to your work.

It’s important to note that the scheme is not available to those already receiving certain benefits (for example, Income Support or Incapacity Benefit).

Access to Work vs. Reasonable Adjustments

Under the Equality Act 2010, employers are legally required to make “reasonable adjustments” for employees with a disability. Access to Work does not replace this responsibility. Instead, it provides additional financial support where adjustments or specialist help go beyond what an employer is expected to fund.

How to Apply

Applications are made by the individual not the employer, via the official government website. In some cases, the employer may need to cover costs upfront and then claim reimbursement, but the employee is never required to pay the grant back.

Every application is assessed on an individual basis, and the amount awarded will depend on the type and level of support needed. There is, however, a maximum cap on the value of grants. The current annual cap is £66,000, with reviews taking place each year.

Why It Matters

Access to Work can be life-changing not only enabling people to enter and sustain meaningful employment but also helping employers retain skilled staff who might otherwise be unable to continue in their role. For organisations, promoting awareness of this programme shows a commitment to inclusivity and creates a stronger, more diverse workforce.